Steve Borthwick explains why Maro Itoje has replaced Jamie George as England captain for Six Nations

Source: Metro

Author: Tom Olver

Published: Jan, 14 2025 11:44

Maro Itoje has taken over from Jamie George as England’s captain ahead of this year’s Six Nations. George, 34, had been serving as Steve Borthwick’s skipper following Owen Farrell’s decision to step away from international rugby in late 2023. But Borthwick has opted to replace George with Saracens team-mate Itoje amid mounting speculation over the hooker’s place in England’s starting XV for next month’s Six Nations opener against Ireland in Dublin.

Image Credit: Metro [England v Japan - Autumn Nations Series 2024]

Itoje was announced as Saracens’ permanent captain at the start of the 2024/25 season and has taken on a greater leadership role with England in recent years. The 30-year-old lock, who is also comfortable playing in the back row, has been capped 88 times by England having made his debut against Italy back in 2016.

Facing the media this afternoon, England head coach Borthwick said Itoje’s leadership experience and respect within the group made him ‘ideally placed’ for the position. ‘With 88 England caps, Maro has been a central figure in this squad for many years, bringing a vast amount of experience both on and off the field,’ Borthwick told reporters.

‘He’s a calm, influential leader, renowned for his commitment to upholding high standards and his ability to motivate those around him. ‘His strong rapport with the squad and coaches, combined with his leadership experience at Saracens, makes him ideally placed to take on this responsibility.

Image Credit: Metro [Italy v England - RBS Six Nations]

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Steve Borthwick explains why Maro Itoje has replaced Jamie George as England captain for Six Nations

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